Aha! They apparated; that explains everything. In his condition, I'm surprised that someone didn't get splinched, for goodness sake! I suppose that getting splinched would have been better than the alternative, if he had not apparated.

When Draco offers to take the blame for leaving the village and doing magic outside of school in order to save Astoria from getting in trouble, I think that really revealed some of his best qualities in his characterization. I find it extremely endearing that Draco is willing to take the fall for her. Furthermore, when Astoria outright refused to do so, I believe some of her best qualities were revealed as well. She couldn't possibly mar another person's name for her own benefit. It really shows how good-natured she is.

I love Astoria's analysis of Hermione's statement. "It's a girl thing" that was perfect! In a way, it is a subconscious element of being female, to want to change males. It's only because we see the potential in them, and want to push them to do their best, of course ;).

*Cough* Yes, that sounds like Bellatrix.

The first thing that I adored about their interactions in this was the chemistry the two seem to have. The mild teasing and the general way in which they speak to one another really gives leeway for an eventually love interest. I also really loved that Draco opened up to Astoria so much. The story about the Death Eaters burning the house down, leaving the son inside to die, and the continuation about the Ratciffes... it was all very chilling. I think I especially loved how he made it known that the dark mark did not bring him power, but made him a slave, instead.

Astoria is really just a fantastic and kind person. She tuned herself in for breaking the rules, stood up for Draco, and truly believes that he can change. She's right, however, it will be extremely difficult to better himself if everybody stands against him.

Fantastic chapter!

-Rumpel

Author's Response: Hello, again!

The fact that Draco was able to get them there in one piece was a testament to the survival skills that he developed during the war. Learning how to run away was, I'm sure, key to staying alive in some situations.

One thing I started to like about them as I wrote this is that they do have a lot of complimentary qualities. Draco is pretty selfless where she's concerned, but she has a good enough head on her shoulders to know when she should accept his offers and when she shouldn't. She also knows Hermione better than Draco does, fortunately for the both of them.

Ah, Bellatrix! She's far and away my favorite lunatic in the HP books, which is pretty high praise with Voldemort running around.

I'm really glad that you're enjoying the story! I hope you have more opportunities to keep going. Thanks for the review!